Ontario Soccer is continuing to show that the safety of their athletes and participants are a priority to the community. 

This week, Respect in Sport revealed that Ontario Soccer had surpassed 20,000 certifications in the Respect in Sport Activity Leader program. 

This is in addition to the 10,000 parents who have already been certified in the Respect in Sport Parent Program. 

It all adds up to a commitment by the province to keep kids safe.

"Ontario Soccer continues to show great leadership in the area of coach education, athlete welfare and focusing on keeping soccer fun and safe for all involved," said Mark Allen, the Ontario Director for Respect in Sport. "This milestone of 20,000 plus now certified in the Respect in Sport Activity Leader program, combined with the 10,000 plus parents certified in the Respect in Sport Parent Program, underscores the commitment Ontario Soccer has made to doing all it can to maintain and enhance the culture of soccer in Ontario."

The Respect in Sport Parent Program is a one-hour online module for parents and guardians, reinforcing their role in their child’s activities, encouraging positive sport behaviors, and providing insight into the various roles other individuals play, such as coaches and officials. 

This program empowers parents to ensure the safety of their children, encourage positive and effective communication, and to enhance a child's overall enjoyment of soccer. 

The Respect in Sport Activity Leader/Coach Program educates youth leaders, coaches, officials and participants (14-years and up) to recognize, understand and respond to issues of bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination.

It is considered by Respect in Sport to be the single most important training soccer leaders will receive to assist them in creating a safe, healthy and respectful environment for all participants.

“We are honored to have a partnership with the Respect in Sport Group and child advocacy leader, Mr. Sheldon Kennedy. By implementing their Activity Leader and Parent programs, we are educating our leaders to ensure a safe and enjoyable playing experience for our youth.This is testimony that Ontario Soccer membership cares for the well being of our youth," said Johnny Misley, Chief Executive Officer of Ontario Soccer. 

Ontario Soccer is encouraging all districts, clubs and academies to take up the cause in their region.

If you’d like to learn more about the Respect in Sport Program – Parent Program, or Respect in Sport – Activity Leader Program, visit OntarioSoccer.net for more or visit RespectinSport.com.